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The reaction between aluminium and steam

Like the reaction between magnesium and water, it is possible to react aluminium with steam. However, the aluminium oxide produced forms a barrier on the surface of the aluminium which prevents further reaction.

Aluminium briefly reacts with steam as a protective oxide barrier is produced preventing any more reaction

When aluminium reacts with steam, the products are aluminium oxide and hydrogen gas. 

Aluminium + Steam → Aluminium oxide + Hydrogen
2Al + 3H2O → Al2O3 + 3H2

 

The reaction between aluminium and steam in more detail

Note: You will not need to know this information but it may help to provide you with a better understanding of what happens during this reaction.

Diagram showing what happens to aluminium molecules when introduced to steam

As with the magnesium oxide in the earlier reaction, the aluminium and oxygen that make up the aluminium oxide are held together by ionic bonds.

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